What movement phase comes after the "pull" in the clean?

In the clean, after the "pull" phase, which involves the lifter lifting the barbell from the floor to their shoulders, the next phase is the catch. This is a critical moment where the lifter rapidly drops underneath the barbell as it reaches its peak height. The purpose of the catch is to receive the barbell in a stable position, typically in a squat position, while maintaining control to prepare for standing up with the weight.

The catch phase is essential for ensuring that the lifter can maintain balance and posture when the barbell is brought to a resting position on the shoulders. This phase marks a transition into the recovery and subsequent movements that involve standing the bar up and establishing stability, but it is distinct from catching the barbell itself.